BCAA supplements, or Branched Chain Amino Acids, are one of the very few supplements preferred by athletes, sportsmen, and workout enthusiasts. BCAAs help with muscle growth, post-workout fatigue and muscle soreness, and improved liver functions. In fact, these supplements can help you with positive biohacking.
What are BCAAs? BCAAs are a combination of three amino acids; leucine, isoleucine, and valine. More than 35% of the human body’s muscle protein is comprised by these three amino acids. This is quite intriguing as the human contains more than 20 amino acids, and these three are the most prevalent ones. And more interestingly, the human body is unable to make these amino acids on its own. That’s why you have to depend on food, or supplements, to fulfill the body’s need for branched chain amino acids.
But not all BCAA supplements will give you positive results. The ones in our list are the best ones in the market:
Our suggested Best BCAA Supplements are:
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How BCAAs help workout sessions? Unlike other amino acids, these three significantly contribute to preserve the body’s muscle glycogen stores. This way you can minimize your body’s protein breakdown while engaging in heavy physical activities. In short words, BCAA supplements can help you to get the most out of your workout sessions.
Our benchmarks for choosing these products were real user reviews, brand value, certifications, value for money, diet compatibility, level of side effects, consumption process, and taste. Considering all of these metrics, these 12 supplements came in top. Let’s get into the details of each of these BCAA supplements and help you to decide which one you would like to gain some real muscle!
Evlution Nutrition BCAA Energy
Why We Picked It: Great user reviews, reputed manufacturer, brilliant added nutrients
This is a BCAA supplement that will not only make your workout sessions worthwhile, but also will support your healthy diet. This zero-calorie and zero-carb supplement contains 5 mg of BCAAs per double scoop serving. Apart from amino acids, it also contains Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12. Among other ingredients, malic acid, sucralose, silica, and acesulfame potassium are notable.
Highlights:
- 2:1:1 ratio of L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine
- 5 mg BCAAs per double scoop serving
- Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12
- Extra beta-alanine
- 110 mg caffeine per package
- No carbs or calories
- Comes in different flavors
Who Makes It:
The company behind this awesome supplement is Evlution Nutrition, a Florida based company that specializes in branched chain amino acid supplements. They have three different versions of BCAA supplements, and all of these have good user reviews. Evlution Nutrition has a very good reputation among athletes.
Pros:
- Perfect ratio of branched amino acids
- Different vitamins
- No carbs and calories
- Contains caffeine
- Easy to consume
- Tastes good
- Has multiple flavor options
Cons:
- Has artificial sweeteners
- Not too much BCAA per serving
Transparent Labs CoreSeries BCAA
Why We Picked It: Additional glutamine with BCAAs, honest manufacturers
This supplement is a relatively new one compared to the other entries into this list, but the immense quality of Transparent Labs CoreSeries BCAA forced us to give it such a high position. The x-factor is the additional glutamine you will get along with traditional amino acids. The product is totally free from fillers, additives, and dyes. It has all the ingredients you need, without unnecessary stuff.
Highlights:
- 8g BCAAs per serving
- 2:1:1 ratio of BCAA
- 5g glutamine per serving
- Contains coconut powder
- No additives
- Gluten free
- Non-GMO
- Available in two different flavors (green apple and blue raz)
Who Makes It:
The makers of this supplement, Transparent Labs is one of the fastest growing supplement producers. The name of the company speaks for itself, they are all about transparency! Unlike many other manufacturers, the product packaging from Transparent Labs contains information about all the ingredients used to make the supplements. With honesty and integrity, they are growing every day.
Pros:
- Perfect BCAA ratio
- Additional glutamine
- Gluten free and Non-GMO
- No artificial ingredients
- Has anti-inflammatory properties
- Good for skin and eye health
- All ingredients are mentioned in packaging
Cons:
- Some users didn’t like the taste of it
Post JYM Active Matrix
Why We Picked It: Great for post-workout consumption, award winning manufacturers
There are two types of BCAA supplements in general: pre-workout and post-workout. The Post Jym Active Matrix falls into the latter category. It doesn’t follow the traditional ratio of leucine, isoleucine and valine. Instead of the common 2:1:1 ratio, it features a ratio of 3:1:1. Those who are looking for more leucine in their supplements can definitely give this one a go. To make things more interesting, it comes in a wide range of flavors.
Highlights:
- 3:1:1 ratio of BCAAs
- 6g BCAA per serving
- 3g glutamine per serving
- Contains beta-alanine and L-carnitine
- Has creatine HCL
- Additional BioPerine and betaine
- 30 servings per packaging
- Lots of flavors
Who Makes It:
The producers of Post JYM Active Matrix, the JYM Supplement Science won the title of ‘Brand of the Year’ during the 2018 Bodybuilding Awards. Winning an award at such a high profile event is no joke, and JYM Supplement Science had to compete with some of the world’s best manufacturers. There is no question about their credibility.
Pros:
- More leucine than traditional supplements
- Has glutamine
- Bigger serving size
- Contains many additional beneficial ingredients
- Improves hypertrophy
- Reduces post-workout fatigue
- Tastes good
Cons:
- Has sucralose, soy, and acesulfame potassium
Scivation Xtend BCAA
Why We Picked It: Famous manufacturer, contains electrolytes
Scivation Xtend BCAA is one of the most famous entries in our list. It follows the classic ratio of 2:1:1 for the three essential amino acids. It also contains citrulline that boosts energy production and helps the body to avoid muscle catabolism. You can take this supplement both before and after your workout session.
Highlights:
- 2:1:1 ratio of essential amino acids
- 7g of BCAA per serving
- No carbohydrates
- Zero calories
- No sugar
- Vitamin B6
- Added Potassium
- Citrulline
Who Makes It:
Scivation, the manufacturer of Scivation Xtend BCAA, is a US based company that is one of the oldest ones in the market. They have kept a positive reputation for many years because of the quality of their products. Their supplements are advanced, and free of any major side effects.
Pros:
- Perfect BCAA ratio
- No carbs or calories
- Zero sugar
- Added vitamins and potassium
- Increase effectiveness of electrolytes
- Reduces muscle soreness
- Boosts endurance
- 16 different flavors
Cons:
- Not good for pre-workout
- No stimulants
MyProtein BCAA
Why We Picked It: Portable product, Good value for money
Those who are looking for more leucine from their BCAA supplement can definitely have a go at MyProtein BCAA. It follows a ratio of 4:1:1, instead of the classic 2:1:1. The biggest benefit of this particular supplement is, you don’t need to make a lot of arrangements to take it as you can take these tablets even on the go. The dosage is not comparatively small, but very convenient for beginners.
Highlights:
- 3 tablets per serving
- 4.5g BCAA per serving
- 4:1:1 ratio
- 1.4mg Vitamin B6 per serving
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Stearic acid
- Silicon dioxide
- Portable
Who Makes It:
MyProtein is popular for a whey concentrate named Impact. But their other supplements have proven their worth over the years. In total, they have seven BCAA supplements. They manufacture supplements in different forms, and offer products to people with specific requirements.
Pros:
- Extra leucine
- Additional Vitamin B6
- Free from artificial ingredients
- Portable
- Can be taken before, during, or after workout
- Value for money
Cons:
- The dosage is relatively small
Do Vitamins BCAA
Why We Picked It: Pure BCAA, award winning product
If you are looking for a BCAA supplement that doesn’t include anything other than BCAA, then this is your best bet. Do Vitamins like to keep things simple, and this supplement is a proof of that. The product is available in both capsule and powder form; you choose either depending on your preference.
Highlights:
- Pure product
- 5g BCAA per serving
- 2:1:1 ratio of BCAA
- Gluten and dairy free
- No preservatives
- No artificial ingredients
- Vegan friendly
- Available in both capsule and powder form
Who Makes It:
Do Vitamins have produced more than one award winning BCAA supplements. This company aims to specialize in sports nutrition for athletes who are very serious about the ingredients of the supplements they are taking. Do Vitamins is very well-known for their organic and pure methods of supplement manufacturing.
Pros:
- Perfect BCAA ratio
- Pure BCAA
- Gluten free and Non-GMO
- No additives
- Vegan and vegetarian friendly
- Two different forms
Cons:
- No other nutrients and minerals apart from BCAA
Bulk Supplements BCAA
Why We Picked It: Simplest product, Easily stackable
Bulk Supplements BCAA is the top preference of many people worldwide because of its simplicity. You’ll just get the branched chained amino acids without any added minerals and vitamins. This is better in a way because at times some vitamins like Vitamin E can increase toxic levels in your body. No fillers, no caffeine, only pure BCAA!
Highlights:
- Pure BCAA
- 2:1:1 ratio of BCAAs
- Different package options
- No fillers
- No added vitamins or minerals
- No caffeine
- Convenient for before, during, and after workout sessions
Who Makes It:
Bulk Supplements is one of the best online retailers of nutrient supplements. Compared to their competitors, they offer higher volumes of supplements to people all around the world. Their products stay pure for extended periods of time, and can be stacked easily.
Pros:
- Just pure BCAA
- No sugar
- Gluten, soy, and dairy free
- No artificial flavors
- Easy to stack
- Helps fast recovery
- No additives
Cons:
- The taste isn’t so pleasant
- No other minerals or nutrients
Optimum Nutrition Instantized BCAA 5000
Why We Picked It: Reputed manufacturer, positive user reviews, value for money
This product is not for the people who are taking BCAA for the first time, because the dosage per serving is quite high. With 5g of BCAA per serving, this is one of the strongest supplements in this list. The product is available in two different versions, flavored and unflavored. This is a great addition to your protein supplement or MRP.
Highlights
- 2:1:1 ratio of BCAAs
- 10 calories per serving
- 3g carbohydrates per serving
- Contains citric acid and tartaric acid
- Contains soy ingredients
- Available in flavored and unflavored versions
Who Makes It:
Optimum Nutrition is an US-based supplement manufacturer that has been operating in the industry for over 30 years. Performance focused athletes are the major consumers of their products. This company has set the Gold Standard in sports nutrition and always tries to maintain the highest standard when it comes to supplements.
Pros:
- Perfect BCAA ratio
- High dosage
- Flavored and unflavored versions
- Suitable for pre workout, post workout, and intra workout
- Helps to drop in body fat
- Reduces soreness after workout
Cons:
- Not soy-free
- Unflavored version doesn’t taste good
MusclePharm Essentials BCAA Powder
Why We Picked It: Unique BCAA ratio, fruit flavors
Though most people like their BCAA supplement in a 2:1:1 ratio, MusclePharm BCAA has decided to take a different approach. The unique ratio of 3:1:2 is being preferred by many, as they are getting good results from it. It contains more leucine and valine compared to isoleucine, and is known to give fast results when it comes to muscle building.
Highlights:
- 3:1:1 ratio of BCAA
- 6g BCAA per serving
- Fruit and vegetable flavors
- Available in 6 different flavors
- Available in both capsule and powder form
- Has malic acid and citric acid
- Focuses on muscle building
Who Makes It:
MusclePharm considers themselves as a scientifically driven performance booster company. They develop, produce, and distribute branded supplements globally. The company is founded by current and former athletes, and their focus is on athletes who need good supplements to boost their performance.
Pros:
- Unique BCAA ratio
- High dosage
- Helps faster recovery
- Supports rapid muscle building
- Reduces calorie deficit
- Multiple fruit flavors
- Can be taken in both powdered and capsule form
Cons:
- Some users didn’t like the watermelon flavor
- Might contain mild allergens
Cellucor Alpha Amino
Why We Picked It: Creative product formula, good taste
Those who are looking for a zero calorie version of Gatorade can choose the Cellucor Alpha Amino. Its strength and electrolyte formula have made it a perfect supplement to create a brilliant sport drink. With five different flavors, you won’t fall short of options if you decide to go with the Cellucor Alpha Amino.
Highlights
- 2:1:1 ratio of BCAA
- 5g BCAA per serving
- 1.75g hydration blend per serving
- 13mg Dimagnesium Phosphate per serving
- 30mg Disodium Phosphate per serving
- 70mg Dipotassium Phosphate per serving
- Electrolytes
- Coconut water powder
Who Makes It:
Cellucor is one of the global leaders when it comes to sports nutrition innovation. Their products are known for their effectiveness, good taste, and high quality standards. They have developed and manufactured a wide range of sports supplements and nutrients for both athletes and normal people.
Pros:
- Unique product formula
- Added minerals
- Has essential performance amino acid complex
- Contains coconut water powder
- Different flavors
- Works great as a sports drink
Cons:
- Exact amount of each ingredient can’t be known, as it is proprietary brand
IdealLean BCAAs
Why We Picked It: Best women specific product
IdealLean BCAAs is the only entry in this list that is specifically developed for women. This zero calories product contains vitamins, glutamine, and coconut water powder along with regular BCAAs. Women looking for getting rid of the extra fatty tissues through workout have reported to have received good results from this product.
Highlights:
- Women specific product
- 2:1:1 ratio of BCAAs
- 5g BCAA per serving
- Vitamin B6, B9, and B12
- Contains I-citrulline and I-glutamine
- Coconut water powder
- IdealLean Fat Loss Blend
- Has green tea extract
Who Makes It:
The Utah based fitness corporation, IdealLean, targets women to help them with workout programs and clothing. They have also entered the supplement market and received positive feedback for their protein powder, pre-workouts, and BCAAs.
Pros:
- Great product for women
- Boosts fat burning efforts
- Contains vitamins
- Improves circulation
- Improves antioxidant levels
- Tastes great
Cons:
- Some ingredients are underdosed
Benefits of BCAA Supplements
BCAA supplements come with a plethora of benefits. Here are the major ones:
- Reduced muscle fatigue during workout sessions: BCAAs limits the amount of tryptophan in your brain. Tryptophan can cause workout fatigue by producing serotonin.
- Faster muscle recovery: BCAAs relieve muscle soreness that can happen due to exercise inflammation and strain.
- Increased endurance: If your body runs low on glucose, BCAAs can become the source of energy.
- Improved immunity: Because of rough exercise sessions, a decrease in glutamine in your body can reduce immunity. BCAAs can cover for that.
How to Take BCAA Supplements
BCAA supplements come in three different forms: powder, capsules, and pills. The most used form is powder, as it can be mixed with water, juices, or other liquids. People who want to have the supplements quickly and on the go, prefer options like capsules or tablets.
If you are taking the powder form, then it should be okay to take 3-4 times a day based on your workout plan. Different supplement brands emphasize on different workout timelines. While most of the supplements specialize on before, during, or after a workout period, there are some products that can be taken during any of these periods. If your supplement manufacturer says that it is good for pre-workout, then you should follow their guidelines to take it.
There is no fixed amount of dosage that every should follow, as it varies from person to person. But some researchers recommended taking 0.04-0.05g/kg body weight per hour during and post workout. You can mix the powders with water, sports drinks, protein shakes, cordials, and electrolytes. The packaging of good supplements includes the recommended daily dose, which you shouldn’t exceed.
It is much simpler to take capsules or pills as each of the capsules and pills contain a specific dosage of BCAA. The risk of overdosing is quite minimal in this case. The manufacturers recommend the number of capsules or pills you should take per day to avoid taking too much BCAA. Just like the powder form, you can take capsules or pills before, during, or after your workout routine.
Who Can Take BCAA Supplements
Both adult males and females can take BCAA supplements, if they exercise on a regular basis. It is not recommended to take too much BCAA if you don’t workout, as it might prevent your body’s natural protein breakdown too much and create complications.
In addition, you should avoid any supplement if you are in a specific health condition like pregnancy, or dependent on other medication. It is recommended to consult a nutrition expert before you choose to take BCAA supplements.
Common BCAA FAQs
Q: Are BCAA supplements actually necessary?
Branched chained amino acids are essential for the body, but the body itself can’t make it. That’s why the body needs to rely on alternative sources. BCAA supplements can be a good source of these essential amino acids to keep the bodily functions in order. However, you can also get these essential nutrients from milk proteins, chicken, beef, fish, baked beans, eggs, brown rice, whole wheat, lentils, corn etc.
Q: Should I take BCAA before or after workout?
BCAA supplements help with muscle recovery, so it might seem that the best time to take them is after a workout period. But if you take BCAA before you start working out, you’ll still get the benefits because your muscles start to burn out as soon as you start exercising. That’s why some athletes also take BCAAs during their workout. BCAAs can be taken before, during, or after working out. Everything works fine.
Q: Can you take BCAA while intermittent fasting?
Yes, you can take BCAAs during intermittent fasting, but it shouldn’t exceed 8-10 grams because they contain a few calories. Anything more than the recommended amount will trigger insulin and put you out of your fasted state.
Q: What are the side effects of BCAA supplements?
If you take recommended doses of BCAA supplements, you won’t suffer any serious side effects. But when consumed in too many doses, side effects like coordination loss, fatigue, headache, increased insulin resistance, and nausea can occur. In addition, people who require surgery should avoid BCAA supplements before and after surgery for a certain period of time.
Final Thoughts
BCAA supplements are an easy way to fulfill your body’s daily requirement of essential amino acids. Both athletes and non-athletes can benefit from a good BCAA supplement by getting the best out of their physical exercise sessions. It is one of the safest ways to build muscle fast.
As now you know about the best BCAA supplements, choose the one that fits your needs and budget. Our list contains a wide range of products that are made of different ingredients and belong to different price points. You’ll find something for yourself regardless of your need!
